Hello from Chicago also!

Hello,

I'm new to this forum and just wanted to post hello. I'm currently living in downtown Chicago and am originally from Tampa, FL. I just started drinking whiskey about a year ago and really enjoy a good rye. So far my favorites are Journeyman Ravenswood and HW Rendezvous. Anyone have any other good rye recommendations? I enjoy it with a single ice cube (those giant king cubes to be more specific). Thanks in advance for any direction anyone can provide.

Re: Hello from Chicago also!

Welcome to SB. The Chicago contingent is growing, apparently. I'm jealous. RE: ryes - there are some recent threads on recent releases and some older ones under "Archives" that should provide you with a ton of knowledge. Also, there are some basic bourbons that emphasize rye in their mash bills so even though they are at least 51% corn, rye can dominate.

Specific ryes I like: Rittenhouse makes a wonderful 100 proof rye, and although it's a little pricy for what you get, Sazerac 6 yr. is not bad imo (edit to add "especially in cocktails") .

Re: Hello from Chicago also!

Welcome Shorkologist from another Chicagoan! (And thanks for your hello to me on the other thread). I second Harry's recommendation as to the baby Saz (one of my favorites). Russell's is another good one at a "reasonable" price point. And if you're itching for something with higher proof, check out some of the LDI/MGP based ryes, in particular, Willett and Old Scout.

Re: Hello from Chicago also!

Welcome, Shorkologist! Glad to have you here on SB. I'm particularly gratified, because as a recently transplanted Floridian, you somehow managed to survive this past awfulest of awful Winter in Chicago! A wretched one up there, for sure.

Please join in the conversation often, and "thirding" Harry 's fine recommendation, try and pick up a Saz Jr.

Re: Hello from Chicago also!

Originally Posted by smokinjoe

Welcome, Shorkologist! Glad to have you here on SB. I'm particularly gratified, because as a recently transplanted Floridian, you somehow managed to survive this past awfulest of awful Winter in Chicago! A wretched one up there, for sure.

Please join in the conversation often, and "thirding" Harry 's fine recommendation, try and pick up a Saz Jr.

Ok, since three people recommended it I just went ahead and got two bottles of the 6 year Saz a.k.a Saz Jr. a.k.a baby Saz. I'll let you know how they worked out. Thanks everyone for the recommendations and the warm welcome!

Joe - This has been only my second winter in Chicago and you're right it was a brutal one. Luckily we're starting to come out of it, and of course I had some fine spirits to keep me warm.